Auckland Regional Information

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With over one million people, Auckland is New Zealand's largest and most cosmopolitan city. Here visitors can enjoy all the entertainment delights of a thriving metropolis, or else take advantage of the city's stunning natural location. Auckland's offshore islands, white sand, swimming beaches, rugged surf beaches, native bush and rolling countryside also offer a range of enjoyable options for the outdoors enthusiast. Auckland is almost completely surrounded by harbour waters, with Manukau Harbour on the Tasman side, and Waitemata Harbour opening out into the Hauraki Gulf. Dubbed 'The City of Sails' because it has the highest number of pleasure boats per capita of any city in the world, its harbour side setting means plenty of fun for the water sports fan and was also the site of the Americas Cup in 2003. A leisurely harbour cruise out to the islands in the Hauraki Gulf is a highly recommended option.

The City is located on an ancient volcanic field. Many of the volcanic cones in the region were once Maori 'Pa' sites (fortified Maori villages). Many islanders from NZ's Pacific neighbours have moved to the city and it now has the largest concentration of Polynesians in the world. Dining and entertainment options in the city reflect this and often display a refreshing mix of Polynesian and European themes. Auckland's many markets are another great way of experiencing a taste of Polynesia. The wider Auckland area contains four cities: Auckland City lies between Waitemata and Manukau Harbours. North Shore City is centered on Takapuna, just over the harbour bridge. Manukau City is to the south of Auckland around the airport and Waiteakere City is to the west. Auckland is the international gateway to the country and has plenty of accommodation, a reasonably good transport system and some of the best restaurants and entertainment venues in New Zealand.

Auckland, 'the City of Sails', is a popular destination for many travellers. The largest city in New Zealand, Auckland is built on 50 dormant volcanoes over an area that is twice the size of London. The city has white and black sandy beaches, parks and gardens, a rainforest and is surrounded by three harbours. Auckland is actually comprised of four cities; Auckland, Manukau, North Shore and Waitakere, and three districts; Franklin, Papakura and Rodney. While the population of Auckland is around 1 million, the area attracts over 1.4 million overseas visitors each year who have come to experience one of the most diverse and culturally-rich cities in New Zealand. As well as being a major tourist destination, Auckland has also staged the America's Cup and round-the-world yacht races. The Auckland Sky Tower is one of the highest buildings in the world at 328 metres and it offers superb views of this awesome city and if inclined, you can even the throw yourself off the top! Another great way to view Auckland City is from the Waitemata Harbour, from which you can see the harbour bridge against the backdrop of the picturesque cityscape. Auckland is best viewed on foot and the Coast-to-Coast Walkway is a good place to start. This will take you from Albert Park through to Manukau past many interesting sights including the parklands at The Domain, the Art Gallery and you will also climb two of Auckland's highest peaks at Mount Eden and One Tree Hill. Auckland has a sunny climate with moderate rainfall and the city has a reputation for its outstanding Pacific Rim Cuisine, wines and shopping. Almost 50 islands make up the region's maritime park, which makes it a hot spot for watersports and other outdoor pursuits. There will never be enough time to see and do all you would like to but Kelly Tarlton's Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World, Auckland's premier marine attraction, should definitely be on your list. Here you will get up close and personal with some of the world's most fascinating creatures, including penguins, sharks and stingrays. The City of Sails has a vibrant arts centre featuring the Sky City Theatre, Aotea Centre, the Civic Theatre and has a diverse club scene with many opportunities to see live performances.